Chase The Kangaroo

I started writing my eulogy this morning. No, I don’t have a terminal illness. No, I’m not planning on exiting stage left any time soon.

I’m writing my eulogy, not based on the life I’ve lived, but based on the life I want to have lived. If I died today, they would basically say that I was a nice guy and so on. Not that I inspired people with my words and actions. They wouldn’t say that I lived life to the fullest. “He used to talk about writing, but never really did.” “He played it safe.” “The mountain biking and snow boarding made him a little interesting for someone his age.” “Oh yeah, he did enjoy the outdoors and his dog.” But they’d end up talking more about me being a nice guy, but no real impact being made. My impression would fade fairly quickly.

I’m writing my eulogy to aspire to a life with a eulogy worth reading. I want to be remembered as an example of a true Christ follower. I want to be remembered as a loving husband. My deep friendships. A delightful brother. A writer whose words inspired. A successful investor.

The idea is with most mornings, I read my eulogy and set my compass accordingly. What goals did that guy set to get to where he was? What habits did he set? What habits did he overcome? What sacrifices did he make to live such a life? What drove him? How did each morning point him in that clear direction?

As my imagination and dreams grow, my eulogy should become deeper and more meaningful. My goals should become clearer and more precise and always in pursuit of that guy in the eulogy.

My inspiration for this post was Donald Miller’s, Why That Worked podcast. I’ve been a fan of him for years now. There’s a profound simplicity in his approach to encouraging, teaching, and consulting.